There are several reason why I oppose the petition.  First, I was a graduate from a counselor education program and I learned valuable skills that are specific to counseling.  I engaged in a Psychology undergraduate program and the fields are entirely different.  While I learned valuable skills in Psychology, the skills were not readily applicable to my work as a counselor.  I believe that the LPC in Virginia holds a special recognition that shows the knowledge and skills that are gained only in a counseling program.  When clients chose to utilize the services of an LPC, they have a certain idea of what they can expect.  Including a degree of Psychology for being LPC eligible will change the perspective that clients will have when engaging in services.  I believe that it will be confusing for clients and professionals, alike, to have such a wide array of professional practices qualifying for the same license.  I have no problem with a separate licensure process for those who pursued a master's in Psychology, but do not believe that it should be eligible for a LPC.  A similar example would be social workers.  Social workers hold a special niche in the services they provide.  Though social workers are similar to counselors, they have their own licensing procedures.  I believe that clients understand the differences between a social worker and a counselor, as each have their own identities.  The same should be true for counselors and psychologists. 

Respectfully,

Katrina Lewis